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U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card Review
If you’re looking for a flexible cash back credit card, the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card could be the right fit for you. Known for its customizable rewards program, the Cash+ card allows you to choose your cash back categories, making it possible to earn the most in areas where you spend the most. With no annual fee and a variety of cash back opportunities, this card stands out as a top contender in the cash back credit card market.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the details of the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card, covering its rewards structure, fees, benefits, and how it compares to other cash back credit cards. We’ll also highlight the pros and cons to help you decide if this card meets your financial needs.
U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card Overview
The U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card is a cash back card that offers a high level of customization, allowing cardholders to select two categories each quarter for 5% cash back (on up to $2,000 in combined purchases) and another category for unlimited 2% cash back. All other purchases earn 1% cash back. This unique feature lets users tailor the rewards to fit their spending habits, maximizing the value they can extract from their everyday expenses.
Rewards Program
1. Customizable Cash Back (5% Categories)
The standout feature of the U.S. Bank Cash+ card is its customizable cash back program. Each quarter, you can select two categories from a list of eligible 5% cash back options, such as TV, internet, and streaming services, cell phone providers, utilities, and more. You’ll earn 5% cash back on your first $2,000 in combined purchases across the chosen categories. After reaching this cap, you’ll still earn 1% on additional spending in these categories.
2. Unlimited 2% Cash Back Category
Along with the 5% cash back categories, you can choose one category to earn unlimited 2% cash back. Options include common spending areas like gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores. This feature is perfect for everyday purchases that don’t fit within the higher cash back categories.
3. Standard 1% Cash Back on Other Purchases
For any purchases that don’t fall within the selected categories, you’ll still earn 1% cash back. While this is a standard rate for many cash back cards, the ability to earn 5% and 2% on customized categories helps set the U.S. Bank Cash+ card apart.
Redemption Options
The card’s cash back rewards can be redeemed as a statement credit, direct deposit, or gift card. There are no minimum redemption requirements, making it easy for cardholders to redeem rewards as frequently as they wish.
Fees
- Annual Fee: $0
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% on purchases made outside the U.S.
- Balance Transfer Fee: Either 3% of the amount of each transfer or $5, whichever is greater.
The lack of an annual fee makes the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card accessible to a wide range of users, while the foreign transaction fee may be a drawback for frequent international travelers.
APR and Financing
- 0% Introductory APR: The card offers a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. This can be a valuable feature if you’re planning a large purchase or need time to pay down an existing balance.
- Standard APR: Once the introductory period ends, a variable APR of 19.99% – 29.99% applies.
- Balance Transfer Fee: Balance transfers incur a fee of 3% of the transferred amount, which is standard for most credit cards.
Cardholder Benefits
- Visa Signature Benefits: As a Visa Signature card, it provides access to benefits such as travel and emergency assistance, extended warranty protection, and Visa Signature concierge services.
- Purchase Protection: Covers eligible purchases against damage or theft within 90 days of the purchase date.
- Extended Warranty Protection: Extends the manufacturer’s warranty on eligible purchases.
Pros and Cons of the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card
Pros:
- Customizable cash back categories: Maximize rewards by choosing your highest spending areas.
- No annual fee: Enjoy rewards without worrying about offsetting an annual cost.
- 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers: Provides flexibility for managing expenses.
- Flexible redemption options: Redeem rewards easily as cash back, statement credit, or gift cards.
Cons:
- Spending cap on 5% categories: The $2,000 quarterly limit may restrict high spenders.
- 3% foreign transaction fee: Not ideal for international use.
- High standard APR: May be costly if you carry a balance after the introductory period.
U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Compared to Other Credit Cards
1. U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card vs. Chase Freedom Flex℠
Read our review of the Chase Freedom Flex here.
Both cards offer rotating 5% categories, but the Chase Freedom Flex requires enrollment in categories that change each quarter, while the U.S. Bank Cash+ allows you to choose your categories. The Chase Freedom Flex also offers travel rewards through Chase Ultimate Rewards, which can be more valuable for travel enthusiasts. However, U.S. Bank Cash+ provides more flexibility in category selection and doesn’t limit cash back earnings to specific merchants within each category.
2. U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card vs. Citi® Double Cash Card
Read our review of the Citi Double Cash Card here.
The Citi Double Cash Card offers a straightforward rewards structure with 2% cash back on all purchases (1% when you buy and 1% when you pay). While it lacks customizable categories, it appeals to users who prefer a flat-rate rewards card. The U.S. Bank Cash+ card’s 5% categories may offer more value for users who can maximize the higher rates, despite the $2,000 quarterly cap.
3. U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card vs. Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Card
Capital One Quicksilver offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases with no categories or caps. It’s a better choice for those who prefer simplicity over customization. The U.S. Bank Cash+ is better suited for cardholders willing to manage the quarterly category selections for higher rewards.
How to Maximize the U.S. Bank Cash+ Card
To get the most out of the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card, be strategic with category selection:
- Choose 5% categories where you spend the most: Review your monthly expenses to find areas where you can maximize cash back.
- Use the 2% category for everyday essentials: Select groceries or gas as your 2% category to earn rewards on frequent purchases.
- Set reminders to update categories each quarter: Take advantage of the card’s flexibility by regularly reviewing and updating your selections based on your spending habits.
Is the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card Right for You?
The U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card is an excellent choice for savvy spenders who enjoy maximizing cash back in specific categories. The card’s flexibility to choose categories gives you control over where you earn the most rewards. However, it’s not ideal for frequent travelers due to the foreign transaction fee. Additionally, if you carry a balance, the high standard APR could outweigh the rewards benefits.
Conclusion
The U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card stands out for its customizable rewards program, making it one of the top cash back credit cards for those who want to maximize their earnings. With no annual fee and a generous introductory APR offer, it’s a great option for everyday spending. However, the 3% foreign transaction fee and spending cap on 5% categories may limit its appeal to some users. Ultimately, if you’re looking for flexibility in how you earn cash back and prefer a card with no annual fee, the U.S. Bank Cash+ Visa Signature Card is worth considering.
Whether you’re new to cash back cards or looking to optimize your rewards strategy, this card offers a compelling mix of benefits that can help you save on everyday expenses.